Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Blogging Tips

I love reading blogs! I also love reading successful people's tips. I found these gems today on The Pioneer Woman's Blog (of course), but I thought they were great! Here is a link if you want to check them out.
Seems to work for her :)

XO,
Cat

Friday, March 16, 2012

These are a few of my favorite (handmade) things!

Today I just wanted to share a post about some of my very favorite handmade items I have. I love buying handmade items it is so personal. I like knowing the artist behind the art. When I buy handmade, I know where my money is going and it feels so GOOD to be able to support people and what they are doing. Sometimes buying handmade makes a difference between if a person can even feed their family or not. Not only do I get something amazing out of the deal, I get to help people live and pursue dreams.

I picked up these sweet earrings in the Greenville Pendleton Street Art District a couple months ago. Kelly is the owner of Ragged & Funny and makes the coolest earring from vintage lace.



I'm crazy about pottery, so everywhere I go I have my "pottery radar" up. I picked up these pieces on my most recent trip to Israel outside of the Tomb of the Patriarchs. I didn't watch them make these exact pieces, but I did spend some time watching the potter throw some pomegranates. Another family member hand-painted these colorful designs on the dishes. This family makes their living selling pots.

The last item is a bracelet made from vintage lace by Jenny, owner of Helen and Floyd's. I have introduced her before on this blog (read about that here).

Enjoy the lovely weather today. You can't help but be happy when the sun is shining!

LOVE,
Cat

Friday, March 9, 2012

Yellow Elm: Clemson Collection

Today I would like to introduce you to my sweet friend and coworker Elizabeth, owner of Yellow Elm. Not only does she make fabulous felted accessories (shop), but she has an adorable blog (see that here).


Her newest line is her Clemson Collection. These great orange and purple accessories are for sale at Plaza Suite in Clemson. It's so fun to find cute game day accessories. I am personally excited about this as I am always on the lookout for orange! All you tiger fans out there, be sure to check out her shop!!

 
Morgan, a contestant for the Miss Clemson 2012 beauty pageant, did a wonderful job modelling these hair clips and headbands. I had the priveledge of assisting with the photo shoot and not only is she beautiful, but she is such a sweet girl! Can't wait to cheer her on in a couple of weeks!

 
Have a great weekend everyone! I'm excited it's Friday!!
XO,
Cat

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Treasured: 2012 Pantone Color of the Year

Tangerine is the Pantone color of the year!
Here are a few of my cheerful finds to celebrate tangerine and spring!

Monday, March 5, 2012

Marcel the Shell


"Guess why I smile a lot? Because it's worth it".


I ADORE Marcel the Shell with Shoes On. I had to share this with you.

Sunday, March 4, 2012

Best Banana Bread (Ever)


OK yall, this banana bread is SO easy to make! I'm not much of a cook or baker, but I can make me some banana bread!! (I know, that is bad grammar, but I just had to say it :))

1 3/4 cups all purpose flour
2/3 cups sugar
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1 cup mashed ripe banana
1/3 margarine/butter
2 tbsp milk
2 eggs

In a large mixer bowl combine 1 cup of the flour, the sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add mashed banana; shortening, margarine or butter; and milk. Beat with an electric mixer on low speed till blended, then on high speed for 2 minutes. Add eggs and remaining flour; beat till blended.
Pour batter into a greased 8x4x2 inch loaf pan. Bank in a 350 oven for 55 to 60 minutes or till a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean. Cool for 10 minutes on a wire rack. Remove from the pan; cool thoroughly on a wire rack. Wrap and store overnight before slicing. Makes 1 loaf (16 servings)

**optional: add chopped walnuts to batter.


I usually toast my slice and spread cream cheese over it. Banana bread is so delicious for breakfast!

On another note, thank you to everyone who came out for First Friday's! It was a huge success. I'm excited to see what the future holds!

XO,
Cat